How Stephen Wacker Thinks About Comics

Big news out of Marvel Comics today: Stephen Wacker has been named the company's new Editor-in-Chief. Given all the executive changes Marvel has gone through in recent years, it's encouraging to see someone with deep comic book experience taking the reins of the publishing line.Wacker's résumé extends well beyond editing comics. In addition to overseeing some of Marvel's biggest publishing initiatives, he also served as Vice President of Marvel Animation and later as Vice President of Marvel New Media, helping guide projects like the Marvel Audio Universe on SiriusXM, including Wolverine and other serialized Marvel audio dramas.

To celebrate the news, we're going back to this 2012 Word Balloon conversation with Stephen. It's a fascinating snapshot of Marvel during one of its most creative periods. We talk about the birth of Spider-Man's Brand New Day era, Dan Slott's early run on Amazing Spider-Man, Greg Rucka's Punisher, and Mark Waid's acclaimed Daredevil. Stephen also gets into the weeds on major crossover events like Spider-Island, Shadowland, and DC's The New 52, while pulling back the curtain on Marvel's creator retreats and the collaborative process behind building the Marvel Universe.

Ok, yes, this conversation is now more than a decade old, but I think it still provides a valuable window into how Steve Wacker thinks about comics—how he approaches storytelling, editorial decisions, and working with creators. Until I have the chance to sit down with him again, this interview answers a lot of the questions newer readers may have about the philosophy and instincts of the man now leading Marvel Comics. Enjoy this 2012 conversation with Marvel's new Editor-in-Chief, Stephen Wacker.